Neuro-Rehabilitation Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 April 2014

Wednesday, 30 April 2014

Questions (868)

Damien English

Question:

868. Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health in view of the fact that the need for a new approach to the provision of services for persons with neurological conditions was recognised and that the national policy and strategy for provision of neuro-rehabilitation services in Ireland 2011-2015 was published in November 2011, his views on the way services can be bettered for those families living and coping with caring for those with such neurological conditions; his proposals to improve this national plan and strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19343/14]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

Neurological illness or injury has significant implications for the individual and their family and impacts on their social, educational, vocational and recreational participation. Health and personal social services for people with a neurological illness or injury are provided across a range of settings, by different organisations and by many health professionals and carers. Services include acute hospital services, specialist services at the National Rehabilitation Hospital, primary care, community services, long-term assisted living supports and rehabilitative training services.

Where neuro-rehabilitation is concerned, the HSE is committed to the implementation of the Neuro-Rehabilitation Strategy, which focuses on the rehabilitative needs of those with neurological illness or injury. A Steering Group has been established to develop an implementation plan for the Strategy and to ensure links with the Clinical Rehabilitation Medicine Programme. A key development will be the assignment of regional Rehabilitation Medicine Consultants who will ensure that national best practice is implemented in each regional network, crossing the boundaries between acute and community services.